Last Updated on 2 years ago by Nicky Johnson
Off-campus options are often quite attractive for students. Providing more freedom and potentially more affordable than on-campus housing, living off-campus can give you a great taste of living independently that will help set you up for later success. While anyone can successfully live off-campus, the individuals who enjoy it the most are the ones who know how to work through certain challenges before they begin moving in. Here are a few things to be aware of to help make your transition smoother.
Understand Repair Needs
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When you sign the contract on your apartment or rental house, it’s important to understand who is responsible for repairs and maintenance. For example, you may be responsible for basic maintenance, such as replacing the air filter, while your landlord has to repair any fixture that breaks. Don’t forget to read the fine print in any contract so that you don’t find yourself responsible for unexpected repair costs due to a dishonest landlord trying to save a few bucks. Even if you’re not responsible for repairs, it’s still a good idea to have a basic set of tools on hand for emergencies.
Pick a Reliable Roommate
One of the great things about living off-campus is that you can share living expenses with one or more roommates. To make this arrangement work, though, you need to make sure you choose reliable roommates. If you don’t, you could find yourself on the hook for the entirety of rent or utility payments, which could put you in debt or cause you to be evicted from your apartment or house if the bills go unpaid. To help reduce the risk of non-payment, you may want to ask any roommates to pre-pay their share of living expenses so that no one can claim they “forgot” when the rent comes due every month.
Don’t Move In Without Visiting
In an ad for a rental property, a landlord can claim almost anything they want. Many times, pictures of these properties were taken when the properties were new and don’t necessarily reflect the current condition of the properties. It’s best to visit each property you’re considering before making a final commitment. Student apartments can be great option for leasing during college years. They come with the best facilities a student can ask for during their college years. Although top student apartments in gainesville fl tend to be in high demand, it’s still important to take your time so that you can make a wise decision. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time in your chosen property over the next several months.
Think About Budgeting
Living off-campus comes with new financial responsibilities. Rather than adding to any student debt that you may be accruing by spending your money unwisely, it makes sense to make a budget before you move into your new digs. Although a budget can seem limiting because it reduces the amount that you spend on entertainment and other discretionary expenses, it actually brings freedom in the form of greater financial independence after you graduate. A budget can also help you learn how to save any extra cash that you have so that you can take care of any emergencies when they arise.
Take Your Independence Seriously
The extra independence that off-campus living provides can have many benefits. At the same time, unchecked independence can cause major issues that could have long-lasting effects. For example, when you’re choosing how to fill your refrigerator in your rental property, it can be tempting to fill it with satisfying junk food instead of healthy options. While some junk food is perfectly fine, eating too much could have detrimental effects on your health, leaving you tired, irritable, and generally miserable. Try to take your independence seriously so that you put good habits in place that can follow you after you graduate.
You’ll Be Okay
Although your living arrangement in college is an important part of your success, it’s not the only factor. Ultimately, if you can put in the work required by your classes and study an appropriate amount for exams, you’ll be able to succeed during your college years. With the above-mentioned tips, you’ll be able to excel and enjoy these years instead of just having to put your head down to try and make it through.
